Definition

A type of cell that holds a dark pigment called melanin, commonly found in the skin of certain animals like amphibians and reptiles.

Example

The melanophores in the frog's skin help it change color for camouflage.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a fish with really dark colors?

Yeah, they often have special cells called melanophores that hold pigment.

That's so cool! I didn't know that was how they got their colors.

Right? Those melanophores help them blend in with their surroundings.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Melanophore is formed from "melano-" (from Greek "melas", meaning black) and "-phore" (from Greek "phoros", meaning bearer or carrier). The word refers to a cell or structure that carries or contains black pigment.

Memory Tip

Think of 'melano-' meaning black and '-phore' meaning bearer — so a melanophore is a bearer of black pigment.

Visually Confused Words